More Coverage

London North Centre Liberal MP Peter Fragiskatos spoke Sunday with Free Press reporter Patrick Maloney about a number of issues, ranging from Donald Trump’s early days as president to city hall’s continued push for federal funding to build rapid transit. Here’s their exchange:

Q: I say Donald Trump, you say, what?

A: I think we need to engage the new U.S. administration and our government is doing that at the highest levels. That is absolutely critical because our countries rely on each other. I’m heartened that relations between Canada and the United States have been so strong for decades — 35 U.S. states have Canada as their top export partner. I have no doubt this relationship with be a good, strong relationship. We need each other.

Q: Do you fear any toll Trump’s protectionist approach could have on London and Southwestern Ontario economically?

A: I go back to the fact that we’re so dependent on each other. So many American jobs depend on Canada. That’s recognized at all levels of American politics. I’m confident Southwestern Ontario can move forward, will not be negatively impacted and we have to make sure the region’s interests are protected. I would submit the Canada-U.S. relationship is the most successful we’ve seen in modern times. We can stay focused on maintaining a good relationship but also stand up for Canadian values.

Q: Let’s talk about something London-centric, rapid transit. How close is Ottawa to committing to funding the $560-million project?

A: I’ve been advocating and I’m quite happy with how the situation is unfolding. The bulk of the funding has not come yet because the second phase of (federal) infrastructure funding hasn’t been set yet. I expect more on its parameters to be announced in the coming weeks. You’re going to see a concrete step in terms of funding for (the rapid transit project) SHIFT. It’s going to be funding support for initial groundwork, and that’s coming shortly. I’m confident of that.

Q: Your party’s broken pledge on electoral reform has become a political headache. What do you tell disappointed supporters?

A: I understand a number of Londoners wanted to see a change to our electoral system. I understand the disappointment. But there are reasons. There was no (public) consensus. Among those Londoners that want to move away from (the traditional) first-past-the-post (system), there is a desire for alternatives — not one alternative but alternatives. There are other reasons as well: the government is seized with a number of challenges that are even more important than electoral reform: The U.S.-Canada relationship and the international challenges as well. And we have to stay focused on strengthening our economy. . . . The way we handle those challenges will determine the country’s future in a way that’s more significant than a change to electoral reform.